U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Africa

CMSS addressed several challenges in the design of this 210,000 SF embassy, fulfilling a wide variety of functions within one highly constrained site (only 8.6 acres) and housing elements normally scattered among several buildings. Planned for accessibility and vertical integration, the seven-story building is organized into a series of wings surrounding a three-story atrium and central orientation space. Public functions are concentrated near the main entrance.

Inspired by African weaves, the façade features a granite pattern that becomes lighter as it moves up the structure, a technique that also reduces the effect of the equatorial heat. The curving arcs of the kora, an indigenous guitar-like instrument, are represented in the architectural forms and details throughout the building.

This stunning facility reinforces the State Department’s mission, blending US diplomatic and traditional African architecture while simultaneously meeting high security standards and the criteria for US Green Building Council’s LEED® certification.

Client: US Department of State

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